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Biomedical Science (Cellular Pathology) MSc

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Develop your laboratory skills and learn from researchers at the forefront of biomedical research on this highly practical degree using industry-level technology and diagnostic techniques

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Why choose Biomedical Science (Cellular Pathology) MSc at Middlesex?

Cellular pathology saves many lives each year by helping to fight serious illness. It is the study of changes in cells, tissues, and organs that cause disease. This specialism is constantly evolving and plays a crucial role in the fight against serious illnesses, particularly cancer.

Our MSc emphasises practical skills and hands-on experience in diagnostic techniques. Our specialist laboratories are fully equipped with specialist technology, including a cell culture facility and proteomics facilities. You will learn to use cutting-edge techniques and equipment for cellular and molecular analysis, such as MALDI-TOF mass spectrometers, flow cytometers, DNA sequencing, real-time PCR, electrophoresis, and HPLC.

Our biomedical science courses have an excellent international reputation. All our teaching staff are involved in research and many are pioneers in their own field. Our Centre for Investigative and Diagnostic Oncology has made significant breakthroughs in cancer diagnosis and treatment, including our breakthrough in the development of a vaccine for bladder cancer.

We have strong links with London hospitals and NHS Laboratories which means that you will be studying the latest developments, practices, and research.

What you will gain

In addition to gaining in-depth knowledge of your subject, you will acquire a comprehensive understanding of designing and conducting experiments, statistical analyses, and techniques for analysing samples and molecules.

You will also be proficient in managing a laboratory, including people management, business plans and budgets, safety regulations, and quality management. Additionally, you will become familiar with ethical and legal issues that may arise in specific types of research, such as assisted reproduction and genetics, genetic testing, and human or animal research.

All our teaching staff are involved in research and many are pioneers in their own field. The course is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science, so on graduation you'll have fulfilled the academic requirement for Licentiate membership of the institute; you can apply for student membership while you study.

Accreditations

This course is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Sciences (IBMS). You will graduate with a professional qualification that will give you a competitive edge in pursuing your scientific career ambitions.

Graduating from this course are entitled to become a member of The IBMS, which is the professional body for biomedical scientists in the UK. It can help its members to develop their careers and scientific knowledge as well as provide them with personal and professional support.

3 great reasons to pick this course

Leading experts.

All our teaching staff are involved in research and many are pioneers in their own field of expertise – particularly in cancer diagnosis and treatment

Accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Sciences (IBMS)

You will graduate with a professional qualification that will give you a competitive edge for pursuing your scientific career ambitions

Excellent employment prospects

Our graduates have gone on to work at Anthony Nolan Trust, NHS Hillingdon, Boots, and NHS Whittington

In this course, you will learn about the body's major organs, how diseases affect them, and how to treat and prevent them. You will also study the cellular structure and function of different organs and tissues, and how to diagnose diseases using histopathology and cytology. You’ll look specifically at cancer, cervical screening and the HPV vaccination along with oncogenes, organ transplants, genetic disorders and Human Tissue Authority regulations.

Advanced Bioanalytical Techniques (15 credits) - Compulsory

The module aims to examine advanced bioanalytical techniques that are used in biomedical research, for the analysis of products, for improving diseases understanding and for the analysis of disease biomarkers. It also provides a detailed understanding of the principles, theory and practice of bioanalytical techniques, including safety, instrumentation, sample preparation techniques together with analysis and interpretation of analytical data.

Biomedical Ethics and Law (15 credits) - Compulsory

The module aims to provide insight into a range of ethical and legal issues that relate to professional practice, to research with human and animal subjects and to human reproduction, particularly various forms of reproductive technology. It will also aim to give students a broad overview of the relevant current UK ethical and legal regulations for research using human tissues. The module will further explore the ethical issues present in the rapidly developing area of genetic technology, including genetic testing and selection, genetic engineering, and the concept of genetic disease. After an introduction to basic ethical theory and legal principles, the focus of the module will be on exploring ways in which, by applying theoretical considerations to practice, ethical and legal issues can be critically analysed and addressed.

Cancer (15 credits) - Compulsory

The module aims to provide student with the knowledge and understanding of the principles of carcinogenesis, malignancy and metastasis. They will learn cellular pathology to the diagnosis and management of a range of common cancers. They will apply cellular pathology techniques in cancer and gain experience of interpreting results from patient investigations.

Experimental Design and Statistics (15 credits) - Compulsory

The module aims to provide students with the tools required to design effective and efficient experiments and to test scientific hypotheses. The module will also equip students with the tools necessary for statistical analysis in a hypothesis testing context.

Genetics Disorders (15 credits) - Compulsory

This module will provide the student with knowledge and understanding of the role and application of genetics testing in the diagnosis and management of patients with genetic disorders and the implications to other family members.

Leadership and Management (15 credits) - Compulsory

The module aims to provide students with current theories and approaches to leadership and management in order they can bring about effect positive change in the team or organisation that they lead or manage.

Major Organ Histopathology (15 credits) - Compulsory

This module aims is to provide the student with the knowledge and understanding of the cellular structure and function of the major organs and the cellular pathological findings in a range of clinical disorders other than cancer. An additional aim is to provide knowledge on the techniques that can be apply to investigation a range of clinical disorders and gain experience of interpreting results from patient investigations.

Pathological Basis of Disease (15 credits) - Compulsory

This module aims is to provide the student with the knowledge and understanding of the pathological basis of disease and the use of histopathology and cytopathology to detect and diagnose disease.

Research Project (60 credits) - Compulsory

Module aims to develop students' skills in planning and execution of an analytical, laboratory-based study and critical evaluation of real research results drawing on their acquired knowledge from other modules. In addition, the module aims to develop students' communication skills to enable them to communicate their findings in written and oral form.

To find out more about this course, please download the MSc Biomedical Science Specialisms (PDF).

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The course is delivered by our academics and industry partners in person and via digital platforms. Our learning activities include lectures, presentations, seminars, webinars, one-to-one tutorials and group projects. You will work in workshops or labs when possible. You'll be taught by an experienced teaching team with a wide range of expertise and professional experience.

• How we'll teach you
• Coursework and assessments

Whether you are studying full or part-time – your course timetable will balance your study commitments on campus with time for work, life commitments and independent study.

We aim to make timetables available to students at least 2 weeks before the start of term. Some weeks are different due to how we schedule classes and arrange on-campus sessions.

Teaching vs independent study

In a typical year, you’ll spend about 1200 hours on your course.

Outside of teaching hours, you’ll learn independently through reading articles and books, working on projects, undertaking research, and preparing for assessments including coursework and presentations.

Typical weekly breakdown

A typical week looks like this:

For placement, there may be additional hours.

Learning terms

On-campus or online: This includes tutor-led sessions such as seminars, lab sessions and demonstrations as well as student-led sessions for work in small groups. Most of teaching will be conducted in campus, but a small percentage of teaching will be online live streaming due to unexpected circumstances

Independent study: This is the work you do in your own time including reading and research.

Part-time study

You can also study this course part-time.

Where will I study?

Our Hendon campus, north London.

Academic support

We have a strong support network online and on campus to help you develop your academic skills. We offer one-to-one and group sessions to develop your learning skills together with academic support from our library, IT teams and learning experts.

Assessments

There are no exams but your coursework will include your research project and dissertation and you will be assessed through presentations and written assignments. Other work including essays, laboratory reports and logbooks, data analysis exercises, case study assignments, and papers made up of a literature review, hypothesis and research question will be assessed.

For your dissertation, you'll design, conduct, evaluate and present the results of your own independent and original research project in a clinical or laboratory setting. You can base your project at your workplace if you’re in relevant employment. You will present your finding through a 12,000 to 15,000 word report and a presentation to your tutors and fellow students.

You'll evaluate your work, skills and knowledge and identify areas for improvement. Sometimes you'll work in groups and assess each other's progress.

Each term, you'll get regular feedback on your learning.

North London campus

Our north London campus is 23 minutes away by underground train, travelling from London Kings Cross.

The Bioscience Suite is equipped with an incredible range of equipment for analysing environmental samples.

The Cell and Tissue Culture facility is essential to cancer, reproductive and stem cell research.

Specialist labs.

Learn within the University's cutting-edge laboratories, which include:

• A well-equipped cell culture facility and histology lab
• Fully equipped proteomics facilities.

Bioscience Suite

Our bioscience suite is equipped with an incredible range of equipment with which you can analyse environmental samples.

Facilities include fluorescence microscopes to examine biological samples. You will also have access to microbiological and molecular equipment, affording a broad range of analytical capabilities.

Cell and Tissue Culture Lab

Our dedicated Cell and Tissue Culture Lab is focused on the culture of mammalian cell lines. The laboratory's outstanding facilities include:

• Biological safety cabinets for the sterile handling of cells
• Four phase-contrast microscopes
• Several atmosphere-controlled incubators for growing cells.

You can use the lab to discover new biomarkers which can be used to detect disease, as well as in vitro models to determine the efficacy of many potential treatments for disease.

This facility is essential to cancer, reproductive, stem cell and nano-pharmaceutics research at Middlesex.

The Sheppard Library

Our library is open 24 hours a day during the term and includes:

• Over 1,000 study areas with rooms for group study and over 600 computer spaces
• 350,000 books and e-books and more than 24,000 online journals
• Free laptop loans, Wi-Fi and printing.

Student support

We offer lots of support to help you while you're studying including financial advice, wellbeing, mental health and disability support.

Additional needs

We'll support you if you have additional needs such as sensory impairment or dyslexia. And if you want to find out whether Middlesex is the right place for you before you apply, get in touch with our   Disability and Neurodiversity team .

Our specialist teams will support your mental health. We have free individual counselling sessions, workshops, support groups and useful guides.

Work while you study

Our Middlesex Unitemps branch will help you find work that fits around uni and your other commitments. We have hundreds of student jobs on campus that pay the London Living Wage and above.   Visit the Middlesex Unitemps   page .

Financial support

You can apply for scholarships and bursaries. We have also reduced the costs of studying with free laptop loans, free learning resources and discounts to save money on everyday things. Check out our guide to   student life on a budget.

How can the MSc Biomedical Science (Cellular Pathology) support your career?

Biomedical Science represents the second-largest profession registered by the Health Professions Council and there is a high demand for well-qualified graduates. Our university's postgraduate courses have been recognised for their ability to support your career.

95% of our postgraduate students go on to work or further study – Graduate Outcomes, 2022.

Career paths

Some of our graduates have gone on to work in management, consultancy, lab supervision, or international roles within hospitals, schools and universities. Many graduates go on to become cellular pathologists, biomedical scientists working alongside doctors, analysing patients’ samples to produce often urgent results, and advising on treatment.

Alternatively, you could work in a medical or pharmaceutical research lab, developing new techniques for diagnosing and treating diseases. There are also opportunities in diagnostic laboratories within both the public and private sectors.

If you're currently working in cellular pathology, this MSc will help you progress to a more senior position. You might also wish to explore your options in research or academia, or even complete further study at a doctoral level.

There are many opportunities available in a variety of sectors including academia, education, biotechnology, and even areas like patent law, forensic science and science journalism. Biomedical scientists also work with Public Health England, the Medical Research Council and the Health and Safety Executive.

MDXworks, our employability service , will help you make the most of your experience and connections to achieve your career goals. You'll have unlimited access to one-to-one advice and support from specialists in your sector plus 24/7 online support. You can also make the most of events and networking opportunities, on and off campus.

Global alumni network

You’ll be studying with students from 122 countries who’ll become part of your personal global network. You'll learn how to work with a global mindset and make invaluable connections on your course for your chosen industry.

• International entry
• How to apply

Qualifications

We welcome your application regardless of your background or experience.

For this course, ideally, we are looking for:

• A 2:2 honours degree or above in a related subject.

If you have relevant qualifications or work experience , we may be able to count this towards your entry requirements.

We welcome students from the UK, EU and all over the world. Join students from over 122 countries and discover why so many international students call our campus home:

• Quality teaching with top facilities plus flexible online learning
• Welcoming north London campus that's only 30 minutes from central London
• Work placements and networking with top London employers
• Career support to get you where you want to go after university.

Here are the qualifications relevant for this course:

• A 2:2 honours degree or above.

English language

You'll need good English language skills to study with us. Find out more about our English language requirements.

To study with us in the UK, you will need a student route visa .

Changes to the Immigration Rules introduced in January 2018 now allows international applicants to apply for Student route (formerly tier 4) visas for part-time postgraduate study (courses leading to a qualification at RQF level 7 or SCQF level 11 and above).

Student route visa students studying part-time are subject to certain restrictions:

• No work (paid or unpaid)
• No work placements as part of the programme
• No dependents
• No extending under Student route visa in the UK. This includes Student route visa applications to work as a Students' Union Sabbatical Officer or for the Foundation Programme for postgraduate doctors and dentists
• Not eligible for the Student Route Visa Doctorate Extension Scheme.

*Please note that, if the course of your choice involves work experience, unpaid work, placements or internships, we will be unable to sponsor you to study a part-time course under the Student route (formerly tier 4) visa.

Apply as early as possible to make sure you get a place. You can submit your application before you receive your final qualification.

Personal statements

Make sure that you highlight your best qualities in your personal statement  that are relevant to this course. Such as forward-thinking, creative and collaborative.

You won’t be required to attend an interview.

Find out how to apply for postgraduate taught courses and watch our step-by-step video.

The fees below are for the 2024/25 academic year:

UK students 1

Full-time students: £10,500 Part-time students: £70 per credit Part-time students: £35 per dissertation credit

International students 2

Full-time students: £16,800 Part-time students: £1112 per credit Part-time students: £56 per dissertation credit

Additional costs

We cover your costs for the day-to-day things that you need to do well in your studies.

• Free – laptop loans, Wi-Fi and printing
• Free specialist software for your course
• Free online training with LinkedIn Learning.

We offer lots of support to help you with fees and living costs. Check out our guide to student life on a budget and find out more about postgraduate funding .

Postgraduate scholarships

You may be eligible for one of our scholarships including:

• The Alumni Postgraduate Award – for all UK Middlesex alumni a 20% fee reduction
• The Commonwealth Scholarship – full course fees, airfares and a living allowance
• The Chevening Scholarship – full course fees
• The European Academic Awards – £1000 to £7000 for students showing academic excellence
• Regional or International Merit Award –up to £2,000 towards course fees

For international students, we also have a limited number of other awards specific to certain regions, and work in partnership with funding providers in your country to help support you financially with your study.

Find out more about our postgraduate scholarships .

Help from your employer

Your employer can contribute towards the cost of your postgraduate study as part of their staff development programme.

If you are not currently working, we can help you find work that fits around uni and your other commitments. We have hundreds of student jobs on campus that pay the London Living Wage and above.

Fees disclaimers

1. UK fees: The university reserves the right to increase postgraduate tuition fees in line with changes to legislation, regulation and any government guidance or decisions. The tuition fees for part-time UK study are subject to annual review and we reserve the right to increase the fees each academic year by no more than the level of inflation.

2. International fees: Tuition fees are subject to annual review and we reserve the right to increase the fees each academic year by no more than the level of inflation.

Any annual increase in tuition fees as provided for above will be notified to students at the earliest opportunity in advance of the academic year to which any applicable inflationary rise may apply.

Student Testimonials "I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Middlesex University studying MSc Biomedical Science (Cellular Pathology). I received a lot of help and guidance from my lecturers and PhD student mentor when carrying out research for my thesis on breast cancer. Overall, the content was always delivered in a stimulating manner and the use of formative assessments gave me a lot of confidence and highlighted my strengths and weaknesses so I was able to truly progress." Miss Yasmin Rai MSc Biomedical Science (Cellular Pathology)

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Best universities for biomedical science in the UK - A New Scientist Careers Guide

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Best universities for biomedical science in the UK

Biomedical science is extremely diverse as it encapsulates all scientific disciplines that can be applied to human health. It primarily involves laboratory research to study biological processes to enhance our understanding of health and disease, ultimately contributing to the development of new diagnostic and therapeutic methods.

Biomedical science degrees tend to receive one of the highest number of applications per place in the UK. The University of Oxford, for instance, had 11.2 applications per place in 2023. This is understandable as the UK is at the forefront of biomedical research, housing seven of the 50 top universities worldwide for life sciences and medicine according to QS World University Rankings.

This article outlines the best UK universities for biomedical sciences in 2024, as ranked by The Complete University Guide, one of the most reputable national university rankings. Its league tables give an overall score based on the following parameters: entry standards, student satisfaction, research quality and graduate prospects.

The top 20 universities in the UK to study biomedical science:

• University of Oxford

The course at Oxford is taught by world experts in biomedical science. The first year covers a diverse range of topics in human biology and medicine. You will also develop professional, research and quantitative skills . Over the following two years, students can delve into specialised areas, e.g. pharmacology, physiology or genetics .

As you progress through the course, you will pick up advanced scientific research methods. You have the option to either graduate after three years with a BA in your chosen specialisation such as neuroscience or systems biology , or complete an additional fourth year dedicated to conducting an advanced research project, leading to a Master's degree. 

Entry requirements: A*AA, including two in biology/chemistry/physics/mathematics; Biomedical Admissions Test (BMAT)

• University of Bath

Bath enjoys global recognition as one of the top universities in the country, particularly due to its research centres in evolution and mathematical biology. The uni provides two pathways for biomedical sciences: a BSc (three years) and an MBiomed (four years), each offering an additional placement year.

While the curricula for both are identical, MBiomed has a greater emphasis on research skills . Optional modules are available in later years. 

Entry requirements: AAA or A*AB, including A in biology and chemistry

• Lancaster University

Lancaster differentiates between biomedical sciences and biomedicine. The former teaches a set curriculum and is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Sciences (IBMS), enabling graduates to pursue careers within the NHS. Optional modules are only available in the final year. 

Biomedicine, on the other hand, offers flexibility in subject selection from the second year to match individual aspirations, priming students for an academic or industrial career. Additionally, students can transition to the MSci biomedicine programme or complete an additional year with a placement or studying abroad.

Entry requirements for both: AAB with A in biology and chemistry/ mathematics / physics

• University of St Andrews

At St Andrews, biomedical science is exclusively taught at postgraduate level in the form of its MSc(Res) in biology (biomedical sciences). This 12-month Master's degree involves completing a supervised research project. The biomedical sciences research department is equipped with state-of-the-art technologies and led by world-renowned faculty.

Entry requirements: undergraduate honours degree at 2:1 or above in a relevant discipline, e.g. biochemistry, molecular biology or microbiology

• University College London (UCL)

UCL’s biomedical sciences course is recognised for generating highly employable graduates in life sciences . Transferring to its MSci programme can further enhance your job prospects in academia.

In year 1, all modules are mandatory, offering excellent exposure to various types of biomedical science. During the second year, you can specialise in specific streams, such as molecular biology or neurosciences. Year 3 involves a research project, as well as the opportunity to delve deeper into highly specialised optional courses, such as space medicine.  

Entry requirements: AAA in biology and chemistry , and preferably mathematics; GCSEs at grade B/6 in English and mathematics 

• University of Edinburgh

Edinburgh houses world-class research facilities and ranks highly for its impressive research output every year, particularly for its contribution to biomedical sciences. Its four-year BSc is a well-structured programme that offers great flexibility. 

The first two years cement core knowledge and principles, with a range of biomedical and non-biomedical modules to choose from. The teaching of fundamental concepts continues in years 3 and 4, when you can gain expert knowledge in specific areas of interest, as well as develop transferable skills. 

Moreover, the degree allows you to switch onto other specialised programmes after year 2 or 3, such as BSc anatomy and development, BSc physiology or BSc neuroscience.

Entry requirements: ABB with at least a B in biology and chemistry; maths or physics are recommended; GCSE English at 4/C and maths at 6/B

• University of Aberdeen

The third Scottish university in the top 10 has produced several impactful biomedical scientists, most notably John Macleod, the Nobel prizewinning scientist who co-discovered insulin. Aberdeen offers five biomedical science bachelor’s degrees: anatomy, developmental biology , molecular biology, pharmacology and physiology. 

The curriculum over the first two years is identical across all five courses, with a focus on general principles. The latter half of each degree focuses on its respective specialism. BSc biomedical sciences (anatomy) and BSc biomedical sciences (developmental biology) additionally offer a fifth year in industry or research. Aberdeen was ranked 1st for anatomy and physiology in 2024.

Entry requirements: ABB, including AB in chemistry and maths/another science, preferably biology

• Loughborough University

Loughborough’s three-year BSc in biomedical sciences is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology (RSB). The course also offers an additional placement year in industry or abroad, which comes with an extra qualification each, a diploma in professional studies (DPS) and diploma in international studies (DIntS), respectively. The university has strong industry links with organisations such as GSK and Pfizer.

The programme starts off with mostly compulsory modules to build a strong foundation and gradually introduces more choices over the years to tailor your degree. In the final year, all modules are optional along with your mandatory research project.

Entry requirements: AAB, including biology and maths/another science

• University of Bristol

Bristol is renowned for its state-of-the art research facilities, including human patient simulators. Its course provides insight into various sectors, including biotechnology, the food industry and pharmaceuticals, with graduates going on to study for a PhD, work in industry, study medicine or apply their transferable skills in non-scientific fields.

The first year consists of compulsory modules introducing broad topics. Year 2 introduces more optional modules with three distinct pathways: cells and molecules, molecules and systems, and systems. There is also a focus on transferable skills and employability. Year 3 largely comprises optional modules along with your research project.

Entry requirements: AAA, including chemistry and maths/another science

• University of Manchester

Manchester’s BSc highly values flexibility and a wide range of transferable skills for its students, maximising employability. You have the option to extend the course by one year with an integrated Master’s, placement year, entrepreneurship or a modern language. You can also transfer onto other related courses within the university’s medical bioscience division.

As with most biomedical science degrees, you start with a broad range of compulsory subjects in year 1, specialising in areas of interest from year 2 onwards.

Entry requirements: AAA-AAB, including AA in two of chemistry/biology/physics/maths

• University of Birmingham

Birmingham’s biomedical sciences course is RSB-accredited. Similar to Manchester, it puts great emphasis on transferable skills and employability, allowing you to graduate with a BSc in biomedical science with biomedical entrepreneurship or a BSc in biomedical science with biomaterials. The university also offers an optional MSci year in industry or a clinical setting.

The course follows the same general outline as most biomed courses: a compulsory set of core modules in the first year with the introduction of optional courses in later years.

Entry requirements: AAB with AA in two of chemistry/biology/physics/maths

• University of Warwick

Warwick graduates are some of the most sought after by the UK’s top 100 employers. The university’s course is also accredited by the RSB and offers an optional year in industry or abroad between the second and third year. Although the course structure is similar to that of other universities, you can transfer to other related programmes at the end of the first year.

Entry requirements: AAB, including biology and maths /another science or AAA, including biology

• Swansea University

Swansea’s course is titled BSc applied medical sciences and offers a combination of compulsory and optional modules from year 1. In the second year, you can select from one of three “employability strands”: medical science in practice, enterprise and innovation, and medical science in research. 

The first strand is ideal for those wishing to pursue medicine afterwards, as you will be guaranteed an interview for its graduate entry medicine programme. The second is designed for entrepreneurial individuals interested in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals or product development. The final strand is suited for students with more of a pure academic focus.

Entry requirements: AAB-ABB, including biology/chemistry and maths/another science

• Queen’s University Belfast (QUB)

As with Lancaster’s course, QUB’s BSc in biomedical sciences is IBMS-accredited, thus allowing you to work in the NHS. As such, the course is mostly geared towards clinical medicine and diagnostics, comprising only compulsory modules throughout. Furthermore, QUB has a partnership with the University of Nevada, which offers an opportunity to complete a year in research between years 2 and 3.

Entry requirements: ABB, including AB in biology and chemistry, and GCSE maths grade C/4, or AAB, including A in biology or chemistry and a second science, and GCSE biology and chemistry grade C/4

• Newcastle University

Newcastle’s course is RSB-accredited and offers a year in industry or abroad. At the end of year 1, you also have an opportunity to transfer to other degrees, including medicine or dentistry.

The course itself follows the traditional path of a biomed degree, with set core modules in the beginning followed by more optional courses, including a compulsory module designed to enhance professional skills, e.g. business enterprise for the bioscientist.

Entry requirements: AAB, including biology/chemistry and maths/another science

• University of Sheffield

Sheffield offers its biomed course in four different formats: a standard three-year course, a four-year course with a year in industry, a four-year course with a year in research and a five-year course with one year in industry and another in research. The programmes with added years - which can be done abroad - will award you with an MBiomedSci.

Sheffield’s biomed courses offer optional modules from year 1. These provide exposure to not just the human body, but also those of other species if you wish, such as zoology or plant science .

Entry requirements: AAB, including two sciences

• King’s College London (KCL)

KCL has contributed greatly to medical science. One example is Rosalind Franklin’s crucial research at the university that helped us understand our DNA. The university has multiple industrial links with companies such as GSK and Pfizer, as well as partnerships with universities in Australia, Sweden, Singapore and the US. If you opt for its four-year MSci in biomedical science, you can spend a year in industry or abroad at these places.

Its course teaches a set of mandatory modules in year 1, followed by more options in the second and third years. You can transfer onto specialised biomed degrees, such as the molecular genetics BSc or the pharmacology BSc.

Entry requirements: AAA, including biology and chemistry

• University of Strathclyde

Strathclyde’s BSc in biomedical sciences is accredited by the IBMS as well as the RSB. The course has a strong focus on biomolecular science and teaches a set of compulsory modules through all years, with year 4 allowing you to choose one module from the biochemistry, immunology or microbiology curriculum. You also have the flexibility to switch to other biomolecular courses throughout.

Entry requirements: BBB, including biology or chemistry and another science

• University of Dundee

Dundee’s RSB-accredited BSc in biomedical sciences offers great flexibility as you can choose from a range of optional modules from year 1 along with a set of compulsory subjects. Optional courses include subjects that can help enhance your employability, such as an introduction to scientific enterprises.

You can also transfer to other degrees, including neuroscience or pharmacology . The course offers opportunities to study abroad in industry or academia too.

Entry requirements: BBB, including biology and chemistry plus GCSE maths at grade B/6

• University of Glasgow

As with St Andrews, Glasgow only offers biomedical sciences at a postgraduate level. In contrast, however, you can apply to either an MSc in biomedical sciences or an MRes in biomedical sciences. Both are accredited by the RSB. 

Although the core taught modules are the same, the latter course includes more extensive research projects in defined specialisms such as biotechnology or cell engineering , while the former offers a wide range of optional taught courses, e.g. neuroinflammation or genome editing.

Entry requirements: 2:1 honours degree in a relevant subject

Studying biomedical science opens many doors, not just within the realm of medical sciences, but also in other sectors. You can choose to pursue an academic career and undertake a PhD in areas of interest, such as cell biology, molecular biology or anatomy and physiology.

Alternatively, you could transition into professional and regulated healthcare careers such as medicine or dentistry. If you enjoy lab work exclusively, you could become a biomedical lab technician in the NHS.

If you are hoping to apply your transferable skills in the tech sector - or even in a completely unrelated field where you can provide a unique perspective - you could complete a relevant Master’s or gain exposure with internships or placements.

Whichever route you take, higher education in biomedical sciences is only the first step, but it shapes you into a highly employable professional with excellent analytical thinking, problem-solving and numerical skills.

Biomedical science is a great degree to study as it provides excellent exposure to the vastness of medical sciences, offering something for everyone. With such breadth, you are likely to find a particular niche you are passionate about. You also get to learn a wide range of skills, all while developing specialist knowledge.

While all universities on the list are renowned for their biomedical science courses, some may be more aligned with your interests than others. You should consider course structure, the range of optional courses, industrial or research opportunities and the location of the university when choosing the best place to study biomedical science for you.

• Biomedical Sciences Rankings 2024 [Internet]. The Complete University Guide. Available from: https://www.thecompleteuniversityguide.co.uk/league-tables/rankings/biomedical-sciences
• Biomedical Sciences | University of Oxford [Internet]. Available from: https://www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/undergraduate/courses/course-listing/biomedical-sciences
• Biomedical Sciences BSc (Hons) [Internet]. 2024. Available from: https://www.bath.ac.uk/courses/undergraduate-2024/biosciences/bsc-biomedical-sciences/
• Biomedical Science BSc HonS (B990) - Lancaster University [Internet]. Lancaster University. Available from: https://www.lancaster.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/courses/biomedical-science-bsc-hons-b990/2024/
• Biomedical Sciences MSC (REs) - School of Biology - University of St Andrews [Internet]. Copyright ©  University of St Andrews. Available from: https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/biology/prospective/pgr/biomedical-sciences-mscres/
• Biomedical Sciences BSc [Internet]. Prospective Students Undergraduate. 2024. Available from: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/prospective-students/undergraduate/degrees/biomedical-sciences-bsc/
• BSc Biomedical Sciences [Internet]. The University of Edinburgh. 2024. Available from: https://www.ed.ac.uk/studying/undergraduate/degrees/index.php?action=programme&code=C190
• Biomedical Sciences | Undergraduate Subject areas | Study here | The University of Aberdeen [Internet]. Available from: https://www.abdn.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/subject-areas/343/biomedical-sciences/
• Biological Sciences BSc | Undergraduate study | Loughborough University [Internet]. Available from: https://www.lboro.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/courses/biological-sciences-bsc/#modules_final_year
• BSc Biomedical Sciences [Internet]. University of Bristol. Available from: https://www.bristol.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/2024/biomedical-sciences/bsc-biomedical-sciences/#entry-requirements
• BSc Biomedical Sciences (2025 entry) | The University of Manchester [Internet]. The University of Manchester. Available from: https://www.manchester.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/courses/2025/00532/bsc-biomedical-sciences/#course-profile
• Biomedical Science BSc [Internet]. University of Birmingham. Available from: https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/undergraduate/courses/med/biomedical-science
• Biomedical Science BSc (UCAS B900) [Internet]. Available from: https://warwick.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/courses/bsc-biomedical-science
• Applied Medical Sciences, BSc (Hons) - Swansea University [Internet]. Available from: https://www.swansea.ac.uk/undergraduate/courses/medicine/applied-medical-sciences-bsc-hons/#bbq=on
• Biomedical Science [Internet]. Courses | Queen’s University Belfast. 2024. Available from: https://www.qub.ac.uk/courses/undergraduate/biomedical-science-bsc-b940/#overview
• Biomedical Sciences BSc Honours | Undergraduate [Internet]. Newcastle University. Available from: https://www.ncl.ac.uk/undergraduate/degrees/b940/
• Biomedical Science [Internet]. The University of Sheffield. Available from: https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/undergraduate/courses/2025/biomedical-science-bsc#keydetails
• King’s College London. Biomedical Science [Internet]. King’s College London. 2023. Available from: https://www.kcl.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/courses/biomedical-science-bsc
• BSc Hons Biomedical Science Degree Course | University of StrathClyde [Internet]. Available from: https://www.strath.ac.uk/courses/undergraduate/biomedicalscience/#entryrequirements
• Biomedical Sciences BSc (Hons) [Internet]. University of Dundee. Available from: https://www.dundee.ac.uk/undergraduate/biomedical-sciences
• University of Glasgow - Postgraduate study - Taught degree programmes A‑Z - Biomedical Sciences (MSc) [Internet]. Available from: https://www.gla.ac.uk/postgraduate/taught/biomedical-science-msc/#programmestructure,whythisprogramme,entryrequirements
• University of Glasgow - Postgraduate study - Taught degree programmes A‑Z - Biomedical Sciences (MRes) [Internet]. Available from: https://www.gla.ac.uk/postgraduate/taught/biomedical-sciences-mres/#whythisprogramme,programmestructure,entryrequirements
• Tracey I. UNIVERSITY OF OXFORD ANNUAL ADMISSIONS STATISTICAL REPORT | 2023 [Internet]. 2023. Available from: https://www.ox.ac.uk/sites/files/oxford/AnnualAdmissionsStatisticalReport2023.pdf

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Summer Research Programme

King's College is a research-led institution with a commitment to advancements in healthcare through ambitious and innovative research projects. Our Biomedical Engineering Summer Research aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills required to participate actively in research and development. ​  

This is a rare opportunity for undergraduate students to explore becoming a researcher and solve real life problems, whilst preparing for the next phase of their education. Over this six-week period, students will work on an academic research project aligned with current research areas in the school of Biomedical Engineering, carrying out experiments to develop a solution to a pressing medical problem. During the programme, students will be based at St Thomas' Hospital

Applications now open! Click here to apply

Programme dates.

1 Jul - 9 Aug 2024 Applications open November 2023 Applications deadline 10 May 2024 Contact us Email address: [email protected] Phone: +44(0)20 7848 1533

Apply Now  

Over this six-week programme, students will work on an academic research project aligned with current research areas in the school, carrying out experiments to develop a solution to a pressing medical problem.

Students will take ownership of their research project by:

• Completing a literature review prior to the programme start
• Setting goals for the six-week period
• Designing an experimental strategy to achieve these goals
• Working independently under the supervision of an experienced project supervisor
• Embedding themselves into the host lab group
• Disseminating their work through a written report, an oral presentation and informal interactions with other researchers, following the approach used at scientific conferences
• Participating in weekly seminar on academic writing skills and other discipline-specific topics

All research projects are studied on campus in London.

Programme hours

Students will be expected to commit full-time to this course with a minimum of 35 hours for project work required in labs every week. There will also be 1-to-1 meetings with your project supervisor and lab group meetings scheduled across the six weeks.

Assessment and course outcome

The primary deliverables will be representative of those frequently used to disseminate academic research: Literature Review 20%; Scientific Paper 60%; Oral Presentation 20%.

Credit value

The Biomedical Engineering Summer Research module can be taken for credit towards degrees at other institutions and the module is examined to university standards. To receive credit for King's summer module, contact your home institution to ask them to award external credit. This module is equivalent to an undergraduate degree module and usually awarded 6-8 US credits or 15 ECTS.

Biomedical Engineering Research Programme

The projects allocated on this module will be aligned with the School of Biomedical Engineering and Imaging Sciences’ current research areas, addressing unmet patient needs.

Students will be placed alongside lab group members working in similar research fields, and expected to fully participate in the life of the lab group. Students will receive guidance on new scientific techniques required for their experiments. 

Projects available

Project 1 Title: Development and evaluation of robot ablation catheter system for cardiac ablation therapy

Aims: The project aims to develop and evaluate a robotic ablation catheter system with a view to automate cardiac ablation procedures. Our team has already developed and partially tested a robotic system that converts a standard ablation catheter into a robotic system. The project will involve refining the design of the robotic system, implementing control algorithms and carrying out evaluation in partnership with the cardiology team at St. Thomas’ hospital.

Project 2 Title: Development and evaluation of robotic trans-septal puncture

Aims: The project aims to develop and evaluate a robotic trans-septal puncture system with a view to automate this procedure and potentially reduce the risks to the patient. Our team has already designed a system that converts a standard trans-septal puncture kit into a robotic system. The project will involve constructing the system using additive manufacturing, implementing control algorithms and carrying out evaluation in partnership with the cardiology team at St. Thomas’ hospital.

Project 3 Title: Development and evaluation of cardiac phantoms for cardiac ablation therapy simulation

Aims: The project aims to develop and evaluate novel cardiac phantoms that can be used for training cardiologists for ablation procedures. The phantoms will be designed using patient images and additive manufacturing.  Challenges include the use of flexible filaments for 3D printing, thermochromic paints for recording ablations, and simulation of electrical activity.

Project 4 Title: Development and evaluation of a low-cost high-temperature 3D printer for PEEK

Aims: The project aims to develop and evaluate a low-cost 3D printer for printing of custom bone replacement implants using PEEK. PEEK is a material that is in the same family of materials as PMMA and is approved for human implants in some indications, such as dental and spine procedures. We have already developed a prototype printer for PEEK and aim to evaluate its performance in creation of patient-specific rib and sternal implants.

Project 5 Title: Development and evaluation of a low-cost silicone 3D printer

Aims: The project aims to develop and evaluate a low-cost 3D printer for direct printing of silicone structures. Our team has already developed a prototype and this project will aim to refine this prototype to achieve robust silicone printing. We will particularly focus the 3D printing of silicone cardiac valves for use in phantoms for the training and rehearsal of interventional procedures.

Project 6 Title: Denoising X-ray fluoroscopy images using deep learning

Aims: The project aims to evaluate the use of deep learning algorithms to denoise X-ray fluoroscopy images. We have already developed a series of convolution neural networks to perform the image denoising and evaluated these. The project will focus on the evaluation of our latest networks in the clinical setting of the cardiac catheterisation laboratory

Project 7 Title: Evaluation of web-based teaching and learning of anatomy using medical imaging and 3D models

Aims: We have developed a novel solution for web-based teaching and learning of human anatomy using medical images and 3D models –King’s Virtual Anatomy & Histology. The project will aim to refine  and  evaluate  this  solution using cohorts of students undertaking the King’s Summer programmes and current undergraduate students at King’s. We will be specifically evaluating the use of autostereoscopic 3D displays and AR for teaching and learning.

Project 8 Title: Evaluation of patient localisation using the Intel RealSense camera for robotic procedures

Aims: We aim to develop a robust solution to track a patient that may be supine on an operating or interventional table or on an ultrasound scanning couch. We have already trialled the Microsoft Kinetic for surface scanning of patients during robotic ultrasound scanning. The project will now move to the more recent and robust technology from Intel, the RealSense. We aim to develop and evaluate a real-time surface scanning solution that is robust to the clinical scenario, and which can be linked to robotic solutions, such as robotic ultrasound scanners.

Project 9 Title: Repairing and reproducing skeletons using 3D printing

Aims: This project will involve using state-of-the-art technology to repair and reproduce a range of animal skeletons for the Museum. We will use the Einscan Pro+ surface scanning system or computer tomography scanning to create 3D models of the skeletons. These will then be 3D printed using our range of additive manufacturing facilities at Guy’s and St. Thomas’ hospitals and ported to our online 3D viewing environment, King’s Virtual Anatomy & Histology. The models will be evaluated by our team of anatomists and used for teaching and learning in the School of Life Sciences and Medicine at King’s.

Project 10 Title: Robotic cardiac ultrasound

Aims: This project will use the newly developed robotic system and a cardiac ultrasound phantom to explore the use of the robot in trans-thoracic echocardiography (TTE). The student will be guided to design and perform experiments to do the robot-to-probe calibration and then quantify the probe positioning accuracy using the robot. Based on these works, we will further explore the application of the robot in improving ultrasound imaging, such as the field of view extension of 2-D TTE and image fusion of TTE to other modalities. The results will be analysed and the clinical impacts on TTE will be assessed.  Skills developed: This project is suited to students who would like to be involved in interdisciplinary research between robotics and medical imaging. It will help to improve their knowledge of ultrasound imaging and robotic control, as well as develop experimental and problem-solving skills.

All research projects can be studied on campus in London.Projects will be allocated on an ongoing basis. If you require further information on any of the projects listed above, please email [email protected] .

Undergraduate Summer School 2024 Academic Programme Fees

Programme Dates: 1 July – 9 August 2024 Price: £5,510 The cost of the academic programme would normally cover: • Academic tuition • Course materials (including building materials, lab supplies and protective equipment where applicable) • Access to the King’s digital teaching platform KEATS • On campus Wi-Fi • Use of campus facilities, such as library, classrooms and catering facilities For accommodation inclusive prices, please see tab Accommodation and Residential Packages.

Application cost

The application processing fee is automatically added to the Programme Fee at the time your application is submitted. Early applicants who submit their application by 31 January 2024, can take advantage of our £0.00 processing fee offer. Please note that in the event of a cancellation, the processing fee will be deducted from your refund along with any cancellation charges you may incur in line with our terms and conditions which you can find by clicking here A place on the programme is confirmed once full payment of the programme fees is received. Please visit our How To Apply page for information about how to apply and pay.

This is an open enrolment programme but due to the specialist nature of the research projects, students are required to fill the pre-requisites listed below.

If your qualification is not listed please contact us for advice, indicating the country in which you are studying and the name and level of your current qualification.

Pre-requisites

Applicants are expected to have completed their third year of undergraduate studies with a GPA of at least 3.3/4. Applicants who have completed their second year with a GPA of at least 3.5/4 will also be considered.

Participants must be studying, or have studied, a related subject during their undergraduate studies (ie. Mathematics, physics, engineering, sciences or medicine)

Participants must have an English language level of at least C1 in the CEFR or equivalent

If you require assistance to check your eligibility for the programme, please email [email protected] for advice.

Application Requirements

As part of the application process you will need to upload the following: -An academic transcript from the current or last institution you attended -Evidence of English proficiency level (if required) -A personal statement with the title of your chosen research project and your reasons for undertaking the summer research module

Summer Research Programme 2024 Residential Package prices

Accommodation dates: 29 June – 10 August 2024 Price: £7,970 The cost of the residential programme would normally cover: • Academic tuition • Course materials (including building materials, lab supplies and protective equipment where applicable) • Access to the King’s digital teaching platform KEATS • Accommodation and on campus Wi-Fi • Use of campus facilities, such as library, classrooms and catering facilities • Social activities (excluding travel)

Accommodation

Undergraduate students will be staying in Great Dover Street Apartments King’s Hall of residence. Address: 165 Great Dover St, London SE1 4XA Students are allocated single en-suite rooms with shower. Linen and towels are provided in the room.

Other application cost

The application processing fee is automatically added to the Residential Package at the time your application is submitted. Early applicants who submit their application by 31 January 2024, can take advantage of our £0.00 processing fee offer. Please note that in the event of a cancellation, the processing fee will be deducted from your refund along with any cancellation charges you may incur in line with our terms and conditions . Places in the programme in granted on first-come first-serve basis. Once all spaces are full, we reserve the right to close a course early. A place on the programme is confirmed once full payment of the programme fees is received. Please visit our How To Apply page here for information about how to apply and pay.

Financials and Budgeting

With so many things to do in London, budgeting can be a challenge. It can be a good idea for you to plan in advance and get a picture of the financial cost of living in London. Living expenses will depend on your choices and although London can be expensive, there are opportunities to get the best out of London on a limited budget. You need to consider allocating money for meals as well as travel around London and consumables. Information on travel fares can be found on the Transport for London website by clicking here . Aside from that, we encourage students to bring a small amount of spending money for gifts. Please be advised that a lot of shops and restaurants in London are cashless and may accept only payments by card.

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MRes Biomedical Research (General Biomedical Research)

Imperial college london, different course options.

• Key information

Course Summary

Tuition fees, entry requirements, similar courses at different universities, key information data source : idp connect, qualification type.

MRes - Master of Research

Subject areas

Biomedical Sciences Research Methods (Science)

Course type

Receive the training required to embark on a career in biomedical research on this Master's course. This general stream of the MRes Biomedical Research provides a thorough grounding in biomedical research, covering all chemical, biological and physiological aspects. Appropriate if you are uncertain? Of the field of biomedical research you wish to go into, this stream provides training covering a broad range of techniques, rather than being discipline-specific. You'll gain the theoretical and practical knowledge required to work in a variety of biomedical environments. These include infectious disease epidemiology, mathematical modelling and statistics, genetics and evolution, and computational methods. You'll apply investigative and empirical approaches to some of the practical problems encountered in experimental and human biomedical sciences. Your work will be guided by experienced staff in one of the world's leading biomedical research institutions. Two five-month research projects will build your transferable skills through grant writing, technical workshops, and journal clubs. You have the option of choosing our general biomedical research stream, or one of eight specialisms. All of our biomedical research streams have the same course structure and each stream has its own tailored set of projects alongside a core programme of lectures, seminars and practical classes. You should consider which stream is right for you according to your career aims and background. If an offer of admission is made, it will correspond to a specific stream. Switching streams is not possible once you have commenced your studies.

Study programme

This is the general stream within MRes Biomedical Research. This stream is designed for students from a wide variety of biological, biomedical and chemical science backgrounds who are unsure which area of biomedical science they wish to pursue in the future. The wide variety of projects available across all departments in the Faculty of Medicine gives you a broad choice of research areas across all the streams.

UK fees Course fees for UK students

For this course (per year)

International fees Course fees for EU and international students

Students need to have a minimum requirement of 2.1 degree in an appropriate subject.

MRes Applied Biomedical Sciences Research

Wrexham university, msc biomedical science, biomedical science msc, university of chester, manchester metropolitan university, msc clinical biochemistry.

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• Work with us
• Biomedical Research Centre

In this section

• Research at UCLH
• Taking part in research
• Find a study
• Becoming a research hospital
• Cancer clinical trials
• Clinical research facility
• Get involved in research design
• Using data in research
• Joint Research Office
• Clinical and research informatics unit
• Centre for Medicines Optimisation Research and Education (CMORE)
• Centre for Nurse, Midwife and AHP Research (CNMAR)
• Working with UCL
• Information for staff
• Research news

Our National Institute for Health and Care Research Biomedical Research Centre (BRC) is the result of an outstanding partnership between University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (UCLH) and UCL (University College London). The BRC’s full name is the NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and University College London.

The BRC supports experimental medicine research at UCLH and UCL. It does this by investing in staff posts, equipment, facilities and training. The aim is to turn innovations in basic science into treatments and therapies that have a direct effect on patients.

Visit the NIHR University College London Hospitals BRC website .

NIHR University College London Hospitals Biomedical Research Centre Research & Development Maple House 1st floor 149 Tottenham Court Road London W1T 7DN

General enquiries Telephone:  020 3108 7907 General enquiries:   brcenquiries @ucl.ac.uk

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Medical Science 2

London knowledge quarter.

Read about our impact and performance metrics

Data and research

Find out more about the use of patient data in research

Our next 5 years

Read about our plan for 2022 – 2027

Website developed by Moore-Wilson

Patients and the public are central to our work within the NIHR Imperial BRC, supporting our aims to transform health outcomes locally and internationally through translational research

The nihr imperial brc provides funding to underpin a wide variety of experimental medicine facilities, technology platforms and core supporting services, the nihr imperial brc focuses on 14 research themes to facilitate the flow of research from laboratory bench to patient bedside, harnessing world-leading discovery science and clinical expertise to develop innovative therapeutics, devices and diagnostics for healthcare.

The NIHR Imperial Biomedical Research Centre (BRC) is a part of the NIHR and hosted by  Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust  in partnership with  Imperial College London.

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Research in focus nihr imperial biomedical research centre.

Research / Biomedical Engineering

Research / brain sciences, research / cardiovascular, research / digestive diseases, research / digital health, research / immunology, research / infection & antimicrobial resistance, research / metabolic & endocrine, research / molecular phenotyping, research / multiple long-term conditions, research / pregnancy & prematurity, research / respiratory, research / social genetic & environmental determinants of health, research / surgery & cancer, training / non-medical training, our facilities & services, facilities / clinical imaging facility, facilities / clinical phenotyping centre, facilities / equality, diversity & inclusion, facilities / flow cytometry, facilities / genomics faciltiy, facilities / icare, facilities / ihkb, facilities / imperial clinical trials unit, facilities / organoid facility, facilities / perc, facilities / tissue bank, facilities / translational research collaboration, first-in-human research.

Examples of research projects testing out new drugs, devices and diagnostics in humans for the first time. The BRC is specifically aimed at supporting these kinds of experimental medicine studies.

First in Human First womb transplant operation performed in the UK

First in Human Further analysis of the COVID-19 human challenge study reveals insights into how the virus spreads

First in Human Partnership Video COVID-19 human challenge study – first results

The NIHR Imperial BRC has developed a range of innovative device technologies, in collaboration with scientists in our Faculties of Natural Sciences and Engineering. Some of the most recent are highlighted here.

Device Innovation Non-invasive brain stimulation could provide a new treatment for dementia

Award Device New bronchiolitis trial launched to seek the best breathing support for babies

Device Diagnostic Imperial partners in UK’s first total-body PET platform for drug discovery

Partnerships.

The NIHR Imperial BRC has a strong, successful track record of collaborating with life sciences and other related industries, academic institutions, charities and research organisations. Most recent examples can be found here.

Partnership Prevention Helping feed our most premature babies

Event Partnership Health technology event explores ways to expand innovation for patient benefits

Diagnostic Partnership Therapeutic Treatment Antimicrobial Resistance: Securing the Future

Biomedical Sciences MSc

London, Bloomsbury

The Biomedical Sciences MSc provides opportunities for a broad learning experience in biomedical sciences and research training that will enhance students' ability to be competitive in the biomedical employment field, continue their learning if already in employment and/or develop a research career in this field.

UK tuition fees (2024/25)

Overseas tuition fees (2024/25), programme starts, applications accepted.

Applications open

• Entry requirements

Normally a minimum of an upper second-class UK Bachelor's degree in biomedical sciences, life sciences or related subject area, or a medical degree (MBBS), or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard. Please note that the programme is not accredited for hospital biomedical sciences training.

The English language level for this programme is: Level 2

UCL Pre-Master's and Pre-sessional English courses are for international students who are aiming to study for a postgraduate degree at UCL. The courses will develop your academic English and academic skills required to succeed at postgraduate level.

Further information can be found on our English language requirements page.

Equivalent qualifications

Country-specific information, including details of when UCL representatives are visiting your part of the world, can be obtained from the International Students website .

International applicants can find out the equivalent qualification for their country by selecting from the list below. Please note that the equivalency will correspond to the broad UK degree classification stated on this page (e.g. upper second-class). Where a specific overall percentage is required in the UK qualification, the international equivalency will be higher than that stated below. Please contact Graduate Admissions should you require further advice.

About this degree

The overall aim of the programme is for students to develop an advanced understanding of the structure and function of biomedical systems, together with an understanding of the mechanisms underlying normal function and dysfunction at molecular, cellular and systems levels. Students will acquire and put into practice the research methods skills necessary to investigate mechanisms and develop knowledge in this field.

Who this course is for

The programme is particularly suitable for students with an undergraduate degree in biomedical sciences, life sciences or a related subject area who wish to develop an advanced understanding in the broad subject area of biomedical sciences.

What this course will give you

UCL is recognised as one of the world's best research environments within the field of Life Sciences and Medicine (QS World University Rankings By Subject 2023).

The Division of Biosciences is in a unique position to offer tuition, research opportunities in internationally recognised laboratories and an appreciation of the multidisciplinary nature of biosciences research.

You will have the advantage of studying in a multi-faculty university with a long tradition of excellence, situated at the heart of one of the world's greatest cities.

The foundation of your career

Employability.

The Biomedical Sciences MSc provides opportunities for students to develop and broaden their knowledge and research skills and better prepare for future employment or specialist postgraduate research.

Teaching and learning

Knowledge in the biomedical sciences will be facilitated through lectures, tutorial-style classes and self-directed learning using published articles, web-based information sources and databases and completion of taught module assessments. The research project and preparation of the dissertation develops writing skills, self-directed learning and critical analysis of research literature.

Taught modules are delivered through a combination of lectures, tutorials, practical exercises, computer simulation, data analysis exercises and self-directed learning. Assessment is through coursework (including projects, reports and presentations), unseen written examination, dissertation and oral presentation.

The programme consists of one year (180 credits) full-time or two years (90 credits in each year) of flexible study that include a 90 credits research project. Typical contact hours encompass 24 hours of tutorials and 120 hours of lectures, in addition to 120 hours of interactive research project work and a further 1250 hours of independent study while reviewing course materials, conducting independent research, and preparing formative and summative assignments. This balance of work facilitates a deepening understanding of the subject of Biomedical Sciences while developing self-discipline and critical thinking.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits. The programme consists of a 90-credit research project, and optional subject modules, selected with advice from the programme tutor according to the background and interests of individual students. Optional modules involve topics in neuroscience, in the physiology of health and disease, in subjects related to human genetics, cancer and personalised medicine, cell signalling, statistics, and management for biosciences.

Part-time students complete 90 credits of study in each year of the 2-year part-time programme, with 90 credits of optional modules in year 1 and their 90 credit research project in year 2.

Compulsory modules

Please note that the list of modules given here is indicative. This information is published a long time in advance of enrolment and module content and availability are subject to change. Modules that are in use for the current academic year are linked for further information. Where no link is present, further information is not yet available.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits. Upon successful completion of 180 credits, you will be awarded an MSc in Biomedical Sciences.

Accessibility

Details of the accessibility of UCL buildings can be obtained from AccessAble accessable.co.uk . Further information can also be obtained from the UCL Student Support and Wellbeing team .

Fees and funding

Fees for this course.

The tuition fees shown are for the year indicated above. Fees for subsequent years may increase or otherwise vary. Where the programme is offered on a flexible/modular basis, fees are charged pro-rata to the appropriate full-time Master's fee taken in an academic session. Further information on fee status, fee increases and the fee schedule can be viewed on the UCL Students website: ucl.ac.uk/students/fees .

Additional costs

Students will not face any additional costs.

For more information on additional costs for prospective students please go to our estimated cost of essential expenditure at Accommodation and living costs .

Funding your studies

For a comprehensive list of the funding opportunities available at UCL, including funding relevant to your nationality, please visit the Scholarships and Funding website .

Brown Family Bursary

Deadline: 20 June 2024 Value: £15,000 (1 year) Criteria Based on both academic merit and financial need Eligibility: UK

UCL East London Scholarship

Deadline: 20 June 2024 Value: Tuition fees plus £15,700 stipend () Criteria Based on financial need Eligibility: UK

Students are advised to apply as early as possible due to competition for places. Those applying for scholarship funding (particularly overseas applicants) should take note of application deadlines.

There is an application processing fee for this programme of £90 for online applications and £115 for paper applications. Further information can be found at Application fees .

When we assess your application we would like to learn:

• Why you want to study Biomedical Sciences at graduate level
• Why you want to study Biomedical Sciences at UCL
• What particularly attracts you to this programme
• How your personal, academic and professional background meets the demands of a this rigorous programme
• What your career plans are following your Master's

Together with essential academic requirements, the personal statement is your opportunity to illustrate whether your reasons for applying to this programme match what the programme will deliver.

Please note that you may submit applications for a maximum of two graduate programmes (or one application for the Law LLM) in any application cycle.

Choose your programme

Please read the Application Guidance before proceeding with your application.

Year of entry: 2024-2025

Got questions get in touch.

Division of Biosciences

[email protected]

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• Postgraduate taught

Biomedical Research (Microbiome in Health and Disease)

Develop your biomedical research expertise and explore multidisciplinary approaches to understanding the gut microbiome.

Develop your biomedical research expertise and explore multidisciplinary approaches to understanding the gut microbiome

Explore the development of new targets for disease prevention and treatment

Gain experience of developing research plans on two projects exploring areas of microbiome biology

Course key facts

Qualification, september 2024, £20,150 home, £43,250 overseas, delivered by, department of metabolism, digestion and reproduction, hammersmith, minimum entry standard, 2:1 in an appropriate subject, course overview.

Explore multidisciplinary approaches to understanding the gut microbiome on this Master's course, a specialist stream of the MRes in Biomedical Research.

You'll receive research training in microbiome biology, nutrition, hepatology and microbial signalling, and analytical technologies.

Through laboratory-based research, you'll learn to exercise critical scientific thought to interpret results.

This stream will help you build familiarity with writing grant applications and improve your writing, presenting and communication skills when defining research reports.

You'll also consider the development of new targets for disease prevention and treatment, and apply your expertise across two research projects.

Choose your stream

You have the option of choosing our general biomedical research stream, or one of seven specialisms. All of our biomedical research streams have the same course structure and each stream has its own tailored set of projects alongside a core programme of lectures, seminars and practical classes.

You should consider which stream is right for you according to your career aims and background. If an offer of admission is made, it will correspond to a specific stream. Switching streams is not possible once you have commenced your studies.

• General Biomedical Research
• Anaesthetics, Pain Medicine and Intensive Care
• Bacterial Pathogenesis and Infection  
• Data Science
• Epidemiology, Evolution and Control of Infectious Diseases
• Microbiome in Health and Disease (this stream)
• Molecular Basis of Human Disease  
• Respiratory and Cardiovascular Science

Is this stream for you?

The microbiome stream is aimed at students with a biochemical, microbiological or biological background interested in pursuing further education in microbiome and nutrition in health and disease, understanding fundamental mechanisms behind disease processes and developing therapeutic targets.

It is also for students with a clinical background interested in understanding microbiome in clinical research.

This stream is delivered by the  Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction .

Fri 26 April 2024, 12.00 – 13.00 BST

Postgraduate Study | MRes Biomedical Research (all streams) Virtual Open Day

Our Virtual Open Day, on Friday, 26 April 2024, 12.00-13:00, is a great way to find out more about studying MRes Biomedical Research, and all its stream options, at Imperial College's Faculty of Medicine.

Online only

This page is updated regularly to reflect the latest version of the curriculum. However, this information is subject to change.

Find out more about potential course changes .

Please note:  it may not always be possible to take specific combinations of modules due to timetabling conflicts. For confirmation, please check with the relevant department.

Core modules

You’ll take all of these core modules.

Grant Writing Exercise

Compose a grant proposal, appropriate for submission to an academic funding body. 

This will correspond to your research project(s).

Research Project 1 and Research Project 2

You'll carry out two mini research projects, exploring some of the most technologically advanced approaches currently being applied to biomedical research.

You have a wide range of research projects available to you.

The projects available to you are determined by your chosen stream.

You can also choose projects from other streams, though you will only have priority within your own stream.

Example projects

• One-Health surveillance of emerging antifungal resistance across a UK cohort of farms, homes and green-waste recyclers
• Optimisation of storage and transportation of high throughput DESI swab testing of vaginal dysbiosis.
• Exploring the impact of Mediterranean and Western diet on the gut bacterial metabolism
• Westernisation of the faecal metabolic profiles
• Measuring bacterial sugar nutrients in faecal samples by LC-MS/MS to assess the risk of pathogenic gut colonisation upon administration of antibiotics
• The role of cervicovaginal microbiome on cervical carcinogenesis
• Testing and developing novel drying matrices for Intestinal Microbiota Transplant capsules.
• Can stabilized stool samples be used for bacterial culture, basic proteomics and clinical diagnostics?

See a full list of example Biomedical research projects on the Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction web pages.

Teaching and assessment

Teaching and learning methods, balance of assessment.

• Grant writing exercise
• Research projects
• 10% Grant writing exercise
• 90% Research projects

Assessment methods

Entry requirements.

We consider all applicants on an individual basis, welcoming students from all over the world.

• Minimum academic requirement
• English language requirement
• International qualifications

2:1 in an appropriate subject.

All candidates must demonstrate a minimum level of English language proficiency for admission to the university.

For admission to this course, you must achieve the  standard university requirement  in the appropriate English language qualification. For details of the minimum grades required to achieve this requirement, please see the  English language requirements .

We also accept a wide variety of international qualifications.

The academic requirement above is for applicants who hold or who are working towards a UK qualification.

For guidance see our accepted qualifications  though please note that the standards listed are the  minimum for entry to the College , and  not specifically this Department .

If you have any questions about admissions and the standard required for the qualification you hold or are currently studying then please contact the relevant admissions team .

How to apply

Apply online.

You can submit one application form per year of entry. You can choose up to two courses.

Choosing your stream

In our application system My Imperial , you will need to choose  Biomedical Research (MRes 1YFT)  in the Programme selection search. After this, you will be asked to choose the stream you wish to be considered for.

Application fee

There is no application fee for MRes courses, Postgraduate Certificates, Postgraduate Diplomas, or courses such as PhDs and EngDs.

If you are applying for a taught Master’s course, you will need to pay an application fee before submitting your application.

The fee applies per application and not per course.

• £80 for all taught Master's applications, excluding those to the Imperial College Business School.
• £100 for all MSc applications to the Imperial College Business School.
• £150 for all MBA applications to the Imperial College Business School.

If you are facing financial hardship and are unable to pay the application fee, we encourage you to apply for our application fee waiver.

Read full details about the application fee and waiver

Application process

Find out more about  how to apply for a Master's course , including references and personal statements.

ATAS certificate (overseas candidates)

Unless you are from an exempt nationality, you will need an ATAS certificate to obtain your visa and study this course.

Nationals from the following countries are exempt: Switzerland, Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, USA and EEA members.

Use this information when applying for an ATAS certificate to study this course:

CAH code: CAH10-01-09 Descriptor: Chemical, Process and Energy Engineering Supervisor name: Professor Stephen Neethling

Get guidance and support for obtaining an ATAS certificate .

Tuition fees

Overseas fee, inflationary increases.

You should expect and budget for your fees to increase each year.

Your fee is based on the year you enter the College, not your year of study. This means that if you repeat a year or resume your studies after an interruption, your fees will only increase by the amount linked to inflation.

Find out more about our  tuition fees payment terms , including how inflationary increases are applied to your tuition fees in subsequent years of study.

Which fee you pay

Whether you pay the Home or Overseas fee depends on your fee status. This is assessed based on UK Government legislation and includes things like where you live and your nationality or residency status. Find out  how we assess your fee status .

Postgraduate Master's Loan

If you're a UK national, or EU national with settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, you may be able to apply for a  Postgraduate Master’s Loan  from the UK government, if you meet certain criteria.

The government has not yet published the loan amount for students starting courses in Autumn 2024. As a guide, the maximum value of the loan was £12,167 for courses starting on or after 1 August 2023. 

The loan is not means-tested and you can choose whether to put it towards your tuition fees or living costs.

Scholarships

We offer a range of scholarships for students to support you through your studies.

See what opportunities you may be eligible for on our dedicated Scholarships search tool .

The Dean’s Master’s Scholarships

Value per award.

• £10,000

Who it's for

• All students applying to study a Faculty of Medicine Master’s programme beginning in October 2024

The Dr Jean Alero Thomas Scholarships

• Partial or full tuition fee at the Home rate
• All students applying to study a Faculty of Medicine lab-based Master’s programme beginning in October 2024

How will studying at Imperial help my career?

Strengthen your career prospects as aspiring Anaesthetists and Intensive Care physicians.

Cultivate a robust network within an inclusive Division, fostering valuable connections with academics and clinicians.

Participate in Departmental Research symposia, offering exposure, critical appraisal skills, expert engagement, and staying updated in the field.

Develop key academic skills to support your progress to PhD or medical school.

Develop essential soft skills, such as communication, teamwork, and adaptability, crucial for success in professional healthcare environments.

Get support with grant applications and publication of research findings, enriching academic and professional portfolios.

Further links

Contact the department.

• Email: [email protected]

Course Director:  Professor Tim Ebbels Course Deputy Director:  Dr Elizabeth Want Stream Organiser:  Dr Jia Li

Visit the  Department of Metabolism, Digestion, and Reproduction website .

Our students

Meet Biomedical Research students and see what they have to say about their studies.

You can also read more about our student achievements , including funding, publications and academic prizes.

Register your interest

Stay up to date on news, events, scholarship opportunities and information related to this course.

Events, tasters and talks

Meet us and find out more about studying at Imperial.

Find an event

Terms and conditions

There are some important pieces of information you should be aware of when applying to Imperial. These include key information about your tuition fees, funding, visas, accommodation and more.

Read our terms and conditions

You can find further information about your course, including degree classifications, regulations, progression and awards in the programme specification for your course.